JONI MCGOWAN

        Joni began her musical career by studying the banjo with Don Schumacher and Don Van Palta in Sacramento, California. Her first job was at a Shakey's Pizza Parlor but before she could start she needed to learn 35 songs. Her next job was playing with an all girl "Show Band." It was under the direction of Fred Thompson who had Joni change the spelling of her name from Joanie to Joni so she could be called BANJONI.
        After working with the "Mickey Finn Show," for three years, she left in 1983 to form a trio of three girls called "Wildfire." They travel all over the USA and Canada opening for acts like Jerry Reed and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Joni also appeared in pilot shows for Bobby Vinton as well as being featured in his show at the MGM Grand Hotel.